Methods for improving reading skills of English learners
Abstract: In this article reading types and proven steps that lead to improvement are given. To develop students’ overall comprehension and task achievement several reading tips are discussed and experienced. Tips and methods are so useful and collected in a different way.
Key words: intensive, extensive, multiple choice, oral, aural.
Learning English as a second language is one of the demands of modern society nowadays. As scientists divide English acquisition into 4 parts, reading is a more challenging and difficult. There are two types of reading: intensive and extensive; both of them are equally important for language learners. Intensive reading– this is intended for a specific purpose during English lessons. For instance, students are given a text and set different types of questions (gap filling, multiple choice, matching heading, etc.) They have to accomplish these tasks during the given time. Extensive reading- this involves learners reading for pleasure both in and outside the classroom in order to develop their general reading comprehension. Reading materials may differ, like either fiction, non-fiction, literature books or work-related documents, different articles, and newspapers, etc. In the first type of reading, student should do the followings:
*Pre-reading tips: Interactive approach (Estes, 1999)- a discussion leading which draws out the information that students already know and gives additional short information about a topic. Collecting data about question types, and text, looking through every passage.
*During-reading tips: Prediction, selection, usage of grammar, strategies (scanning, skimming, guessing from context and so on).
*After-reading tips: Summarizing, analyzing, working on mistakes, discussing the text, and answering questions orally/written.
These are 7 steps to be done regularly for general reading:
- Read different types of materials (local magazines and newspapers);
- Set time to read every day;
- Make note-taking while reading;
- Choose a good dictionary;
- Read aloud (sometimes to memorize;)
- Get the general gist of the text;
- Read everyday news online.
For the second type of reading, students should read as many books as they want for enjoyment. Initially, one should select the book that suits one’s level and start reading individually, and silently. Moreover, they only read it, not learn new vocabulary, task accomplishment and understanding. As a result of this, they become their better version, and expand their outlook. Even most students are motivated by works and they can improve overall language competence and learn new vocabulary automatically. Besides, they can develop their oral and aural skills, increase self-esteem and empathy. Students who read extensively will be more autonomous learners.
In conclusion, if every single person follows learning strategies on a daily basis, they can feel the growth and increase. Reading skills are important not only in education but also in real life.
References:
1.Theory of reading. (29th March 2006). Iranian Language Institute Language Teaching.
2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Extensive_reading
3. https://www.fluentu.com/blog/english/how-to-improve-english-reading/
4. https://kierandonaghy.com/seven-benefits-extensive-reading-english-language-students/
Asilabonu Sobirova was born in Karshi district of Kashkadarya region. She graduated school №52 with honors. Currently, she is a first-year student at Uzbekistan State World Languages University on the basis of a state grant. She is a participant of regional and district Olympiads. She is the owner of IELTS certificate. Her articles and poems were published in republican magazines and international anthologies. She is interested in writing poems and little narrations.
Additionally, she is keen on learning new languages such as Russian and Turkish.